Certain foods like onion and garlic are commonly known as bad breath causing culprits. However, there are many other popular foods that can cause bad breath as well. While it is important to note that bad breath can be genetic, most of the time it is our food choices to blame. Is one of these surprising bad breath foods a part of your daily diet? Read on to find out about some bad breath causing foods from Dr. Robert Stoner at Robert Stoner Orthodontics!
1. Pasta Sauce
The acidity from tomatoes in pasta sauce can cause a buildup of acids in the mouth and foster the growth of bacteria. These pesky bacteria can result in bad breath.
2. Peanut Butter
Peanut butter is a protein packed favorite among many of us, however, its paste-like consistency makes it difficult for saliva to break down the proteins once they’re in your mouth. The stickiness makes it so peanut butter can stay around your mouth for hours. Bad breath bacteria thrive on protein, making peanut butter a potential culprit for your stinky breath.
3. Coffee
Coffee addicts, you may be in trouble! Coffee has a drying effect on the mouth, which reduces saliva flow and allows bad breath bacteria not only to grow, but to linger longer. Be sure to drink plenty of water to counteract these bacteria.
4. Cheese
Did you know that most dairy products, including cheese, contain amino acids that react with your oral bacteria to produce sulfur compounds that can make your breath sour? These bacteria feast on milk solids that create excess hydrogen sulphide. The result of this is a mouth that smells like rotten eggs. Luckily, drinking water can help wash away the bacteria and particles that may be in your mouth.
The good news is you don’t need to stop eating these foods to avoid bad breath. Most bad breath can be combated by drinking plenty of water. So go ahead and enjoy the foods above, just be sure to hydrate after so you don’t have stinky breath! As always, please contact our office if you have any questions about your oral health.